South Korea captain Son Heung-min has received a huge outpouring of support from fellow celebrities after posting a heartfelt apology following the national team’s disappointing exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
As criticism intensified following South Korea’s failure to progress from the group stage, Son Heung-min took full responsibility as captain, earning praise for his leadership and sincerity.
On June 30, the LAFC forward shared a lengthy message on Instagram, expressing his regret over South Korea’s poor campaign at the World Cup. “I don’t know where to start” Son Heung-min wrote. “I couldn’t pretend nothing happened and I don’t want to avoid reality.”
He apologized to fans across the country, saying that as someone who loves football, he fully understood the disappointment and frustration fans were feeling. “The World Cup has always been the dream stage that I have talked about since I was a child. It seems that that dream has collapsed. I am deeply saddened and, honestly, it is still difficult to accept this reality.” The 34-year-old admitted he feels a strong sense of responsibility for failing to repay the Korean fans’ unwavering support.
Despite the painful defeat, Son Heung-min vowed to continue fighting for the national team. He also urged fans not to direct excessive criticism at his teammates, asking fans to continue encouraging the team during this difficult period.
Son Heung-min’s emotional message sparked a wave of support from celebrities in the entertainment industry. Among those who commented was Super Junior’s Kim Hee-chul, who shared a tearful reaction image to express her sympathy.
Actor Park Bo-gum left a heartfelt message asking Son to continue representing South Korea at the 2030 FIFA World Cup. “Son Heung-min, I sincerely hope that you will be with us again at the 2030 World Cup.”
Composer Don Spike also defended the musicians, writing: “The players are not to blame. I can’t wait to see them shine at the next World Cup. Go Korea!”
Former profiler and TV personality Kwon Il-yong praised Son Heung-min’s unwavering attitude, saying he would continue to support the captain regardless of the outcome.
Singer Kim Song, Kang Won-rae’s wife, reminded Son Heung-min of this “you can’t always win” and thanked him for giving everything on the pitch.
Actors Lee Si-eon and singer KCM also left messages thanking the team for their hard work, while numerous other celebrities, including musical actor Kim Ho-young, TV personality Chae Rina, comedian Lee Yong-joo, Italian host Alberto Mondi, rapper Hangzoo, rapper Loopy and model Hye Park, joined in offering words of encouragement.
Although South Korea’s World Cup season ended in disappointment, many fans praised Son Heung-min for accepting responsibility and supporting both fans and teammates.
His apology, combined with the entertainment industry’s overwhelming support, further cemented his reputation as one of South Korea’s most respected sports figures.
Sources: Netizenbuzz
